Living with TMD

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or TMD, refers to a range of painful conditions that affect the jaw, jaw joint (also known as the temporomandibular joint), and surrounding muscles. While there is not a single specific cause of TMD, certain factors such as stress, arthritis, poor jaw and bite alignment, and other dental-related conditions may increase the likelihood of developing TMD.

The jaw and jaw joint are responsible for a number of subconscious functions, such as biting, chewing, speaking, and even breathing. When this functionality is compromised by the development of TMD, the condition can greatly impede a patient’s daily life, making it painful and difficult to even open their mouth.

To alleviate some of the discomfort caused by TMD, many patients find oral appliances or stabilization splints to be a versatile, and a minimally invasive method of alleviating their pain. When combined with some at home remedies, patients quickly notice an improvement in their quality of life and overall dental function. Some of these at-home solutions include:

• Anti-inflammatory medication: The swelling of the muscles and tissues surrounding the joint can make basic oral functions extremely painful. Taking ibuprofen or another over-the-counter anti-inflammatory can help reduce this swelling.
•  Learn to Relax: By learning relaxation techniques that lower your overall stress level, many patients that clench or grind their teeth when stressed can help loosen their jaws and alleviate their TMD-related pain.
• Eating soft foods: Crunchy, chewy, or hard foods can also cause joint inflammation. Sticking to softer foods can help patients avoid having to use their jaws excessively and prevent painful TMD flare-ups.
• Separate your teeth: As many individuals clench or grind their teeth when stressed, this may trigger painful TMD episodes. Rather than clenching, try putting your tongue between your teeth to create a cushion between the arches and prevent grinding.
• Try jaw stretches: By practicing minor stretches daily, patients can improve their range of pain-free jaw movement, increasing the overall functional capabilities of the joint.

Thanks to modern dentistry, there are a wide range of treatments available to help alleviate the pain caused by TMD. At Lorton-Springfield Dental Implants & Oral Surgery, our team helps patients identify the best solution for their unique case of TMD, improving their overall dental function and jaw health. For more information about treating TMD with oral appliances, contact our Lorton or Springfield dental offices today.

Oral Solutions to TMD

Temporomandibular joint disorders, or TMD, can be debilitating conditions that prevent patients from enjoying life to the fullest. Thanks to innovations in modern dentistry, individuals suffering from the painful symptoms of TMD have many treatment options. One particular treatment recommended to most patients is a stabilizing oral appliance.

Oral Appliances 101

Similar to a night guard or a bite guard, oral appliances are used to reposition the jaw in a neutral position overnight. There are a number of different stabilization appliances, each designed to address the unique issue caused by a dysfunctional temporomandibular joint. Two of the more commonly known splints are the stabilization splints and mandibular repositioning splints (MORA).

Usually worn only at night, stabilization splints are typically used to prevent TMD patients from clenching or grinding their teeth. They are custom made to cover all of the patient’s teeth and can be made from soft or hard materials. In contrast, MORA appliances are worn for extended periods of time. This version of the splint is a bit more invasive as it is used to realign the entire bite by permanently repositioning the jaw.

Regardless of the type of oral appliance selected, many patients notice a significant improvement in the condition of their joint after using a stabilization or repositional splint. When combined with self-care exercises such as resting your jaw, alternately applying ice and heat, and regularly stretching your jaw, many patients are able to manage the TMD-related pain and regain oral functionality.

Alternatives to Oral Appliances

Splints are not the only oral solution for TMD-related issues. Depending on the source of TMJ-pain, orthodontics may sometimes be recommended for patients with poor bites. Similarly, if missing or deteriorated teeth are the cause of the TMD, patients may consider some form of restorative dental treatment to correct the function of their smile.

For certain patients, splints and orthodontics may not be sufficient treatments for alleviating temporomandibular pain. While there are surgical procedures available for correcting the position of the jaw, condyles, or other components of the temporomandibular joint, surgical treatment is typically considered a final option.

At Lorton-Springfield Dental Implants & Oral Surgery, our team is available to help you understand your TMD treatment options. For more information about oral appliances and the dental approach to TMD care, contact our dental offices in Lorton andSpringfield today to schedule your consultation.